The Eric Liddell Community’s 40 year legacy continues with expanded self-funded and subsidised places to combat isolation and promote active living
With dementia diagnoses in Edinburgh projected to jump 26.5% to over 10,000 cases by 2030¹, The Eric Liddell Community is highlighting the critical need for its specialist Day Care Service.
Over 80% of local people living with dementia reside in the community rather than formal care settings, driving an urgent demand for high quality, local day support.
Open Monday to Friday, the service goes beyond traditional care by offering a highly stimulating daily schedule. Attendees can participate in discussion groups, arts and crafts, dance, baking sessions, and access a multisensory room. Recognising the importance of modern connectivity, the charity also provides one-to-one digital support to help users navigate everyday technology.
Caroline Heenan, Day Care Manager at The Eric Liddell Community, explained the importance of the service: “It has been incredible to hear and see firsthand the impact that the Day Care Service has on the lives of those living with dementia in Edinburgh.
“Our staff and volunteers create such a warm, welcoming, and relaxed environment, ensuring that all service users are supported, and providing activities that help to stimulate the brain whilst promoting a more active lifestyle.
“We have been blown away by the demand for the service, with subsidised places constantly being filled, and more self-funded places being opened up to ensure that those who need the support are getting high quality care, consistently.”
An unnamed service user described her feelings towards the impact of the service: “It definitely feels there’s a sense of community here. If others want to find a place to come and meet people and do things, this is the place to come.
I look forward to the breakfast and two course lunch because it’s homemade, and always very nice.”
Another service user added: “I’m always telling people how much I love this place. One of the things I love about it is that there are always things for you to do.
“I’m over the moon. Everything is just perfect.”
This was expanded on by a third service user, who stated: “It is a reminder that we do have company.”
The Day Care Service is at the heart of the charity, offering a warm, structured space for people living with dementia to connect, socialise, and participate in tailored activities alongside dedicated, caring staff.
With both self-funded and subsidised places now open to new service users, The Eric Liddell Community continues to expand its reach, ensuring local families have access to a reliable network of care and support.
To find out more about The Eric Liddell Community and its Dementia Day Care Service, please visit ericliddell.org.
